AMC announces Grand Chief Christopher Travers

The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs has condemned the alleged actions of a First Nation chief and banned him from future events after he was accused of sexually abusing a child.

In a statement posted Friday on the AMC website, Grand Chief Kathy Merrick called the allegations by Lake St. Martin First Nation Chief Christopher Travers “serious and deeply distressing.”

“I want to make it clear that while this executive acknowledges that he was charged and not convicted of these crimes, AMC unequivocally condemns his alleged actions,” the statement said.

Travers was charged in February with sexual assault, sexual intercourse and child pornography.

Court records say the alleged crimes took place on Dec. 29 and Travers was released on bail.

Police say an elementary school-aged child is involved in the case.

Travers did not immediately respond to a request for comment from The Canadian Press, but told the CBC he is innocent and will not resign.

He will appear in the regional court on July 3.

None of the allegations have been tested in court.

Cathy Merrick, Chief Executive of the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs, speaks to the media Friday, February 10, 2023, in response to a federal announcement to conduct a feasibility study for a local landfill in Winnipeg. THE CANADIAN PRESS/John Woods

Merrick said that given the serious nature of the charges, Travers will not be able to attend AMC events until the charges are resolved.

Then the bosses will give additional direction, he said.

“I want to support the children and families affected by the recent events,” the statement said.

“I have reached out to the Lake St. Martin First Nation Council to offer assistance from AMC at this difficult time.”

– With Canadian Press files